PARTNERS. Office of Civil Defense (OCD) administrator Harold Cabreros (right) and Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines Inc. (OBFPI) president Peter Kairuz (left) shake hands after the signing of a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday (Sept. 2, 2025) where both organizations pledged to help each other in enhancing disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across the country. OBFPI, the humanitarian arm of CBN Asia, is recognized for its life-saving programs and rapid response in times of crisis. (Photo courtesy of OCD)
MANILA – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has partnered with Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines Inc. (OBFPI), a non-government organization, as part of its efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across the country.
The partnership was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday, the OCD said in a statement on Wednesday.
"The Philippines is a country exposed to risks from natural disasters. We are highly vulnerable to hazards brought about by typhoons, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, and landslides. This predicament calls for an enhanced engagement between government and the private sector," Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Harold Cabreros, who led the signing on behalf of the OCD, said.
Cabreros said the OCD is eager to engage with civil society organizations, the private sector, and volunteer groups in its disaster risk reduction and management programs to complement resources and accelerate the delivery of services.
Cabreros was joined by Deputy Administrator for Operations, Assistant Secretary Cesar Idio, and Director Caesar Agnir Jr. of the Partnership, Collaboration, and Engagement Service during the signing.
The OCD said through the partnership, both organizations committed to resource sharing, coordinated action, and community-centered interventions during emergencies.
OBFPI, the humanitarian arm of CBN Asia, is recognized for its life-saving programs and rapid response in times of crisis. Its work complements the government's efforts in disaster risk reduction and humanitarian assistance.
The group was represented by its president, Peter Kairuz; executive director, Gigilyn Endaya; and programs coordinator, Mayla Malana, during the signing.
"This valuable partnership enables us to know what's transpiring on the ground, even before we plan anything," Kairuz said, as he reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to extending humanitarian aid where it is most needed.
"It is OCD that tells us what's going on, what the effects or other consequences may follow any type of disaster, [which enables] us to do our work better. And we are so grateful for this partnership." (PNA)
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